The Britannia Times

Peak Stories: Jessie Walker

Published on 11th. April 2018

We know Jessie as a racing cyclist who we waved off the start-line for the Great Britain team at the 2016 Women's Tour. We caught up with Jessie as she shares her love of Eroica Britannia territory and what it means to her.

We've teamed up with some inspirational folks from in and around the Peak District and asked them to share their memories and experiences of our great and generous Eroica Britannia landscapes which allow us so much freedom, adventure and great times with our friends and family.

These anecdotes and insights into our territory are wonderful ways to show the charm, potential, beauty, challenge and joy of these great lands we call home.

Jessie's Peak Memories

When I think of the Eroica Britannia landscape and territory it always brings back happy childhood memories. It makes me smile thinking about the long hikes on Curbar top, the hilly bike rides with my family, gorgeous views for miles, and summer paddles in the rivers and pools.

My experiences started off with walking almost every weekend and finishing those great walks at Grindleford café for chips and gravy in a massive Yorkshire pudding. As my brother and I got older we took a more serious interest in cycling, so pedalling around Peak District roads and lanes soon replaced weekend hikes and camping at Edale in the holidays.

"The Peak District quickly became our default destination and perfect tool for our cycling"

So many hills, twists, turns and quiet lanes provided perfect training for preparing for our races up and down the country and occasionally abroad. From the steep climbs of the Strines to the longer steady climbs of Froggatt; any effort can be achieved.

"FROM TRAINING TO RACING, THE PEAK DISTRICT HAS IT ALL"

My first race in the county was the almost legendary Monsal Hill Climb, a race steeped in history and one which has been held since 1930.

The photo above is from 2012 when I won the women's event and my brother won the Juvenile event and took the record for that category.

"THEN CAME THE BIG ONE!"

I was selected to race for the Great Britain National Team in the OVO Energy Women's Tour of Britain 2016. The photo above was taken by Larry Hickmott was on the brutal climb of Bank Street, Matlock just before the finish at Chesterfield when Lizzie Armitstead won the stage

From competing in the race to promoting the race. Here I am as part of the photoshoot at the beautiful Chatsworth house with Eroica Britannia ahead of The Women’s Tour in 2016.

Eroica Britannia territory definitely holds a special place in my heart and always will.

Day Tripper, Weekend Adventurer - Join us!

Eroica Britannia allows everyone an exciting, big hearted plunge into the good life of The Peak District. The Ride gives the ultimate chance for proper two-wheeled adventure into some of the best riding territory in the UK.

Our 3-day Festival - hosted in our countryside retreat of Friden Grange showcases the very best of country life, vintage style and civilised festival times for all of the family - surrounded by epic Peak District beauty and a unique carefree camaraderie that makes Eroica Britannia so special!